By: Elizabeth Haarberg

Good Plans

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking this SoundCloud link. 

Many Christians are familiar with the first part of Isaiah 54, but I haven’t heard the second part discussed much.

“But no weapon that is formed against you shall prosper, and every tongue that shall rise against you in judgment you shall show to be in the wrong. This [peace, righteousness, security, triumph over opposition] is the heritage of the servants of the Lord [those in whom the ideal Servant of the Lord is reproduced]; this is the righteousness or the vindication which they obtain from Me [this is that which I impart to them as their justification], says the Lord.”
Isaiah 54:17 Amplified Bible, Classic Edition

It’s our heritage to receive victory over enemies that mean harm to us. God’s promises for our lives are true even when we do not see them right now.

“For I know the thoughts and plans that I have for you, says the Lord, thoughts and plans for welfare and peace and not for evil, to give you hope in your final outcome.”
Jeremiah 29:11 Amplified Bible, Classic Edition

Hang onto the idea that God is our rescuer, even when we aren’t experiencing it right now. Why would we need someone to rescue us if we aren’t in need? Our trials and hardships are the very reasons God swoops down and saves us. Jesus doesn’t want us to be self-sufficient to the point of independent of the Trinity. We have magnificent brains and resilient bodies, but ultimately God wants to intercede in our lives. The proof is the Holy Spirit that was a gift on Jesus’ departure from Earth.

“However, I am telling you nothing but the truth when I say it is profitable (good, expedient, advantageous) for you that I go away. Because if I do not go away, the Comforter (Counselor, Helper, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, Standby) will not come to you [into close fellowship with you]; but if I go away, I will send Him to you [to be in close fellowship with you].”
John 16:7 Amplified Bible, Classic Edition

Let the Holy Spirit invade your body, mind, and soul, encouraging you to stay in the fight of life, battling with the weapons God has given you: peace, righteousness, security, and triumph over opposition.

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado